Ralph L. Cardy

September 02, 2005

On Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2005, Ralph L. Cardy, age 77, of Petoskey, went to be with his Lord.

Ralph was born on Jan. 13, 1928, in Emmet County, to Lawrence and Esther (Pratt) Cardy. Ralph grew up and attended school in Petoskey. He later attended North Central Michigan College as well as Central Michigan University, where he earned his teaching degree.

Ralph served honorably in the U.S. Navy from March 1945 until August 1946.

On Nov. 17, 1949, he married the love of his life, Dorothy "Dot" Southwood in Petoskey.

For a number of years Ralph worked for a variety of local businesses until he entered college and earned his teaching degree.

Ralph worked as a teacher with the Pellston School System for 21 years, teaching at both the high school and elementary school. He was a wonderful teacher who took a special interest in all of his students. He had a quiet and kind disposition that endeared him to his students. In 1991, he retired from teaching.

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Ralph enjoyed the natural beauty of our area and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved bow hunting and, for a time, extended his hobby into the business of Cardy's Archery Shop. He crafted custom bows and specially matched sets of custom arrows.

Highlights of his latter years included a family deep sea fishing trip to Baja, Mexico. In addition, he greatly enjoyed the opportunity to attend the opening of the memorial for World War II veterans.

Ralph was a member of the First Christian Church, where he served as a church elder, Sunday school teacher, youth group leader and member of the church choir. He was also a member of the Peter Shock Squad, a support group for defibrillator recipients.

Ralph is survived by his wife "Dot,"" and by their son, Robert L. (Laurel) Cardy, of Gilbert, Ariz.; two granddaughters, Lara and Emery. Also surviving are his brother, Albert, of Harrison; sister, Violet Hansen, of Arizona; sister-in-law, Mary Cardy, of St. Johns; and sister-in-law, Daisy (Dave) Bodley, of Petoskey; and brother-in-law, Robert (Judy) Southwood, of Las Vegas; as well as many nieces and nephews, and his special friend and companion Boots the cat.

Friends wishing to make a memorial contribution in memory of Ralph are asked to consider Northern Michigan Hospital Cath Lab, or a church of choice.

A funeral service for Ralph has been planned for 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 4, at Stone Funeral Home. Pastors Bill Mindel and Rex Kibler will officiate. Visitation will be held 2-3 p.m. on Sunday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery.